Dublin man to go on trial for €187,000 benefit fraud

A 61-year-old Dublin man is to face trial accused of theft of €187,000 in benefits over 16 years.

Brian Bobey appeared before Judge John Coughlan at Dublin District Court today on multiple theft charges.

It is alleged he stole sums of money, property of the Department of Social Protection, at Errigal Road Post Office in Drimnagh in Dublin.

Mr Bobey, of Walkinstown Parade, Dublin 12 faces charges are under Section Four of the Theft and Fraud Offences Act.

Gda Sergeant Gail Smith told Judge Coughlan that the amount of money involved was €187,000 and the alleged offences occurred between 1997 and 2013.

The DPP has directed that the case should be dealt with at the higher level in the circuit court, which has tougher sentencing powers. No plea was entered and Judge Coughlan granted a six-week adjournment to allow the State time to prepare a book of evidence.